RABAT, MOROCCO – Nigeria revived their hopes of reaching the 2027 Women’s World Cup with a nervy 1-0 win over Zambia in Saturday’s Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, WAFCON, Group C clash, despite playing most of the match with 10 players.
The tournament in Morocco doubles as a qualifier for next year’s global showpiece in Brazil. All four WAFCON semi-finalists will qualify automatically, while losing quarter-finalists can enter inter-confederation play-offs.
The Super Falcons needed a response after a shock 3-2 defeat to debutants Malawi in their opener. They made the perfect start when six-time African Player of the Year, Asisat Oshoala, put them ahead in the 8th minute. Her initial shot was saved by Zambia goalkeeper Hazel Nali, but the ball bobbled in off Oshoala’s right thigh.
Nigeria’s task got tougher five minutes before halftime when centre-back Oluwatosin Demehin was sent off at Al Medina Stadium in Rabat. Referee Josphine Wanjiku upgraded an initial yellow to red after a VAR review, ruling Demehin was last defender after hauling down Barbra Banda. Replays suggested teammate Rofiat Imuran was in a covering position.
Despite their numerical advantage, Zambia failed to capitalise. Racheal Kundananji’s long-range free-kick was tipped over by Nigeria goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, while Banda was subdued after the break. Nigeria survived a late scare when Grace Chanda volleyed over in stoppage time.
The result leaves Nigeria level with Zambia on 3 points in Group C, behind surprise leaders Malawi who have 6 points after beating Egypt 3-1 earlier on Saturday.
Nigeria will face Egypt and Zambia will take on Malawi in the final group matches on Wednesday.
The Super Falcons are ever-present at the Women’s World Cup, having reached the quarter-finals in 1999 and the Round of 16 in the last two editions.
WAFCON 2026: Nigeria Edge Zambia 1-0 To Revive Women’s World Cup Hopes
